MINNEAPOLIS – Sgt. 1st Class John Solem presented the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriotic Employer Award to four United States Department of Agriculture employment supervisors recently at the USDA’s office in downtown Minneapolis. The four USDA supervisors honored at the USDA holiday and training session event were Julie Berge, Monica Hill, Samantha Pafkko, and Jill Pravatiner.
Solem presented the Patriot Award to each individual and commented on why he was so appreciative of their support. An employee serving in the National Guard or Military Reserve, or the spouse of a National Guard or Military Reserve member, may nominate individual supervisors for the Patriotic Employer Award for support provided directly to the nominating Servicemember and his or her family. The Patriotic Employer Award reflects the efforts made to support citizen warriors through a wide range of measures including flexible schedules, time off prior to and after deployment, caring for families, and granting leaves of absence if needed.
In addition to receiving a Patriotic Employer Award, the individuals of the USDA signed an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Statement of Support, confirming that the company joins other employers in pledging:
Also present was Bob Gagne, an ESGR Minnesota Committee member. ESGR is a Department of Defense office that develops and promotes supportive work environments for service members in the National Guard and Reserve through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of applicable laws. ESGR also provides assistance in resolving conflicts between Service members and their employers. This year, ESGR celebrates over 53 years of excellence in support of the Reserve Components and their civilian employers. For more information about ESGR outreach programs or volunteer opportunities, call (800) 336-4590 or visit www.ESGR.mil.
Photo left to right: Sgt. 1st Class John Solem, USDA Supervisors Jill Pravatiner and Julie Berge, and ESGR Volunteer Bob Gagne. USDA Supervisor Samantha Pafkko was present through a virtual online meeting and Monica Hill had recently transferred to a division in Wisconsin. Her award is to be mailed.